With all eyes on Jose Mourinho’s new signings on their home debut, the star duo proved their worth to the Old Trafford faithful.
A double from Zlatan Ibrahimovic was the difference between the two sides, who continues to stamp his authority on the English game so early in his Manchester United career. The Saints were far from passengers and enjoyed dominance in early periods but after Ibrahimovic’s second from the spot, the Red Devils were able to comfortably close out the match.
Zlatan taking the Premier League by storm
Four goals in his opening three matches is a stunning start and he’s already a hit with fans. Some critics said at 34, the former Barcelona, AC Milan and PSG man was signed for his marketability – how wrong some of them will be come the end of the season.
It almost defies logic to even make those claims, especially when you consider this is a man who scored 50 goals in 51 appearances for PSG last season. Moreover, one of the hidden traits the United fans will be delighted with is the Swedish international has lasted the full 90 minutes in both of his Premier League matches so far.
Pogba starting well
After declaring during the week he was fit to start, it was no surprise to see the French star’s name on the team sheet for his second Manchester United debut. Nerves were perhaps on display with his first touch, a mis-control which led to a Southampton counter-attack but from then on it was a composed display.
Known for his confidence, the 23-year-old showed deft dribbling and smart passing throughout the match but what would’ve impressed many was his defensive contributions. Three tackles and five interceptions in showed the midfielder has a propensity to do the dirty work also; an encouraging sign of his all-round game.
Deployed deep in the first period, the record signing’s work rate was terrific, while in the second he show boundless energy to get forward and make an impact in the final third.
Puel’s disappointed but it’s early days
Two games, one point. It’s certainly not panicking stations but after a draw at home to Watford, perhaps it’s a start the Saints fans will be disappointed with. Against a rejuvenated United outfit it was always going to be a tall order, however they will now target matches against Sunderland and Swansea City at home in the next three games as golden opportunities to kick-start their campaign.
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